Mary and Joseph would have stayed in Bethlehem for this very important rite. On this occasion, two important things occurred. First, the boy was formally named. There was no question about this baby's name; the angel made that clear. His name would be Jesus. It was a strong Biblical name-like Joshua, who led the Children of Israel into the Promised Land. So Jesus, the Greek form of Joshua, would lead all believers into the Promised Land.
Second, through circumcision God communicated the covenant promise of Genesis 12:1-3. Now a covenant is different than a contract. A contract is conditional; a covenant is unconditional. There were four parts to the covenant first given to Abraham and passed on through the rite of circumcision in Genesis 17:
1. God would always be loving, forgiving, renewing, and empowering to those who were part of His covenant.
2. God would always have a place in His heart for those with whom He had a covenant, and when the covenant one didn't need flesh anymore, in the eternities He had prepared for him.
3. God would always surround the one with whom He had a covenant with those who would multiply their joys, divide their sorrows, and lift them in prayer.
4. God would release His blessings through those with whom He had a covenant, so all would be blessed.
On this New Year's Day, consider the covenant God made with you through Holy Baptism. He is committed to be your loving God, who has a place for you, who surrounds you with the communion of saints, and who wishes to release His blessings through you to many others.
THE PRAYER: O precious Jesus, we are so grateful for the covenant our heavenly Father made with You, and through You, with us. Bless our living in the covenant this whole year long! Amen.
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